Budapest’s Public Transportation Set for Major Upgrades

The Hungarian capital is poised to implement significant improvements to its public transportation system, aiming to make travel faster, more comfortable, and more accessible for all residents. These changes, based on data analysis and tailored to the needs of Budapest’s citizens, focus on three key areas: metro buses, 24-hour services, and airport transportation.

Metro Buses: Connecting the Outskirts

To commemorate the 75th anniversary of the outer districts joining Budapest, the city plans to introduce a new “metro bus” system. This initiative aims to provide approximately 150,000 residents with more convenient and rapid transit options.

Key Features:

• Initial trial routes from Káposztásmegyer, Pesterzsébet, Zugló, and Rákosszentmihály
• Inspired by Berlin’s successful model of specially marked buses connecting outer districts to the city center
• Designed to bridge the gap until long-term rail projects are completed

The metro bus system addresses the immediate need for quality service in outer districts while major infrastructure projects, such as the Újbuda-Újpest tram connection and extensions of tram lines 3 and 42, await EU funding and implementation.

24-Hour Services: Enhancing Night-time Mobility

While Budapest’s night public transport is already considered high-quality by European standards, the city aims to further improve accessibility, especially for residents of outer districts.

Planned Improvements:

• Increase in 24-hour bus routes from 3 to 12
• Extended metro operating hours on Friday and Saturday nights
• Coverage of areas currently lacking night services

These changes will create a more comprehensive night network, closely resembling daytime service levels and convenience.

Airport Transportation: More Affordable and Convenient

The Budapest Transport Center (BKK) proposes significant changes to airport transportation, making it more wallet-friendly for pass holders and adjusting routes for better connectivity.

Key Changes:

• Reduction of the 100E airport bus fare from 2200 HUF to 900 HUF for Budapest pass holders
• Relocation of the 100E starting point from Deák Ferenc Square to Western Railway Station
• Improved access for residents of Buda hills and those living along the Esztergom and Vác lines

These modifications aim to address the growing air passenger traffic and respond to user requests for new destinations and more affordable options for local residents.

Data-Driven Development

BKK’s proposals are the result of extensive data analysis and strategic planning:

• Regular assessments of Budapest’s transportation status
• GIS analyses for in-depth understanding of public transport situations
• Area-specific studies on public transport share, capacity, and utilization
• Short-, medium-, and long-term development plans based on cost and traffic impact projections

This data-centric approach has also informed BKK’s Transport Safety Strategy, leading to improvements such as speed reduction on Attila Road.

The proposed changes are set to be presented to the relevant assembly committee and the public in the coming days, marking a significant step towards a more efficient and user-friendly public transportation system in Budapest.

Image source: BKK